Fisher Ends Speculation About West Virginia, Staying Put At Florida State

West Virginia native is in line to succeed Bowden

Dec. 23, 2007

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) - Florida State assistant Jimbo Fisher said Sunday night he will be staying at the school, ending rumors that he might become the next head coach at West Virginia.

"I know media reports are circulating regarding the possibility of West Virginia's head coaching position. I am a native of West Virginia and I love the state, but I want to make clear that I am staying at Florida State," Fisher said in a statement released through the university.

"I am committed to this university, this program and these players. I am excited about where I am and where Seminole football is headed."

The 42-year-old offensive coordinator said he would follow Bobby Bowden as head coach at Florida State in a press conference on Dec. 10, when Bowden's contract was extended for one year.

At the same time, Fisher's base pay was increased to $625,000, and he received a $2.5 million guarantee to remain as offensive coordinator for three seasons if Bowden remains that long.

Bowden's contract allows him to decide on his coaching future on a yearly basis.